Edinburgh Rock

Edinburgh rock or Edinburgh Castle rock is a traditional Scottish confection, and is quite distinct from conventional rock. It consists of sugar, water, cream of tartar, colourings and flavourings. It is formed into sticks, and has a soft and crumbly texture. Edinburgh rock was first made in the 19th Century by a man named Alexander Ferguson, who became known as 'Sweetie Sandy'. Alexander was born in Doune, Perthshire in 1789. He learned the confectionery trade in Glasgow, and then moved to Edinburgh to set up his own business. The success of Edinburgh rock was such that he was able to retire back to Doune a very rich man. There is an apocryphal tale that Alexander discovered Edinburgh rock by accident. One day he came across a tray of...